Tell us a bit about yourself.

I am Astha Patel founder of Dhaga. I am an Accessory designer and love to work with textiles.
 
Why did you become a maker?  Why is making so important to you?

Since my childhood I had this fascination for textiles and making little things out of it. I used to design my dresses and try to explain it to my tailor, it used to be a funny conversation between me, my mom and the tailor. As I grew up I started realising I can make things aesthetically more beautiful. And I chose to do designing.
 
How did you begin your business?

I was studying accessory design, but as I said I always had a thing for fabrics. I started reading a lot about textiles and exploring with textile in my projects. Met few weavers during college time, saw their craftsmanship and their working environment. Craftsmanship inspired me and working environment pushed me more towards collaborating with them. I just knew this what I want to do I want to work with traditional technique and Indian weavers.

What is the story behind your brand name?

It takes so many threads to create a beautiful fabric, same way I believe we as a brand are that one thread who can make this world much more beautiful with our organic/sustainable choices. So I chose to name my brand Dhaga (Hindi word for Thread).
 
How has your business evolved over the years?

It hasn’t been so long yet. But its really great seeing people moving towards sustainable lifestyle.
 

Your work space & the artisans you work with.

We work with weavers from Kutch. We have a small team of local tailors and women with amazing embroidery skills.
 
Your favourite work tool.

I love to do embroidery so needle and a cotton thread. And of course my water colors I enjoy making illustrations of the collection.
 
What is currently on your work table?
Laptop, few books, one little plant, few fabric samples, stationary
 
What is your personal favorite pick from your brand right now? And why?

My pick is The Untamed Pocket Tunic and Cloudy Pants. Because it is a very clean and minimal design with little embroidered details. I love to style these two pieces together.
 
What are your displaying at the By Hand, from the Heart.

I will be displaying Khadi and Hand woven kala cotton clothing rage. The designs are timeless and comfortable for every season.